Learn The Pros and Cons of Jacksonville vs. Orlando
Thinking about moving and can’t decide between Jacksonville vs. Orlando? Whether you’re coming from outside Florida or moving within the state, you may have a number of reasons to compare these two cities. Ultimately, each one has its pros and cons, so finding the right fit will depend on what you’re looking for.
In this post, our professional real estate team at Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty – Phil Aitken Home Team will discuss some of the key similarities and differences between Jacksonville vs. Orlando.
Is Jacksonville Cheaper Than Orlando?
If you’re considering moving from Orlando to Jacksonville, your number one concern is likely the cost of living. After all, affordability is a huge factor in determining where you call home. Florida itself has an average cost of living relatively equal to the national average. But what about Jacksonville vs. Orlando?
- The overall cost of living is 9.7% cheaper in Jacksonville
- Transportation costs are 8.7% cheaper in Jacksonville
- Health costs are 3.2% cheaper in Jacksonville
- Grocery costs are 1.5% cheaper in Jacksonville
Winner: Jacksonville
Is Jacksonville Bigger Than Orlando?
Another consideration when looking at Jacksonville vs. Orlando is the size of each city. Jacksonville is Florida’s most populous city. However, it has a larger area in terms of square miles compared to Orlando, so the population density is lower.
- Population in Orlando as of 2021 is 309,154
- Orlando’s area is 119 sq mi
- Median income in Orlando is $41,901
- Population in Jacksonville as of 2021 is 954,614
- Jacksonville’s area is 874 sq mi
- Median income in Jacksonville is $46,768
Both Jacksonville and Orlando are metro areas with urban and suburban characteristics. Both offer a great mix of nightlife for adults and family-friendly activities. Jacksonville is also slightly closer to the ocean.
Ultimately, the right fit for you will depend on what you’re looking for. But if you want a big-city feel without the crowded environment, then Jacksonville is the right choice for you.
Winner: Jacksonville
How Do The Housing Markets Compare in Jacksonville vs. Orlando?
Of course, if you’re planning to buy a home in Jacksonville or Orlando, you probably want to know what the real estate market is like in each city.
- Average home prices are $62,600 cheaper in Jacksonville
- Overall, housing costs are 21.4% cheaper in Jacksonville
- On average, homes are five years newer in Jacksonville
- There are 19.6% more owned homes in Jacksonville than in Orlando
- There are 15.6% more homes rented in Orlando than in Jacksonville
Median home prices in Jacksonville are $231,800 compared to $294,400 for Orlando. So if you want an overall cheaper, newer home, then Jacksonville should be at the top of your list.
Winner: Jacksonville
How Does Crime Compare in Jacksonville vs. Orlando?
Another top concern when looking at Jacksonville vs. Orlando is the crime rate. Overall, Jacksonville has lower crime rates than Orlando.
- Violent crime is 10.2% lower in Jacksonville
- Property crime is 28.1% lower in Jacksonville
Winner: Jacksonville
What is Jacksonville, FL, Known For?
Living in Jacksonville offers residents a great mix of the beach, which is only half an hour’s drive away, and all the benefits of living in a city. JAX has plenty of restaurants, bars, and nightlife in addition to more family-friendly attractions.
Jacksonville is known for its beaches, which include Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, Neptune Beach, and Ponte Vedra Beach.
Things to do in Jacksonville include visiting the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Kingsley Plantation, Riverside Arts Market, and Jacksonville Art Walk. Jacksonville also has the largest urban park system in the U.S., so there are plenty of green spaces around the city.
What is Orlando, FL, Known For?
Orlando is best known for Disney World and Universal Studios, making it a popular destination for tourists. However, Orlando also boasts a plethora of other theme parks, such as SeaWorld, Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, and Aquatica.
Other places to visit include Gatorland, ICON park, Orlando Museum of Art, and the Harry P. Leu Gardens. There are also plenty of opportunities for nightlife, bars, restaurants, shopping, golf, and more.
Phil Aitken Can Help You Buy a Home in Jacksonville, FL
Made up your mind on Jacksonville vs. Orlando? If you’ve decided to move from Orlando to Jacksonville, you’re in good company. From 2015 to 2019, Orlando was the second-highest metro area with residents choosing to move to Jacksonville.
Wherever you may be moving from, Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty – Phil Aitken Home Team should be at the top of your list of realtors to help you find a home in Jacksonville, Florida. Our professional team can help you whether you’re looking for a resale or new construction home.
We’ve been serving home buyers in the First Coast area for years and have helped thousands of clients find their dream homes in and around Jacksonville, FL.
Aside from our experience and top-notch customer service, we truly stand out from other realtors in Jacksonville because of our unique buyer’s guarantees. This includes our 100% Buyer Satisfaction Guarantee and Buyer Cancellation Guarantee.
These guarantees give you a smooth, stress-free home-buying experience and peace of mind from knowing you’re in control each step of the way.
To learn more about relocating to Jacksonville, get in touch with us today. We can help you find the perfect home in JAX or anywhere else in the First Coast area, such as Nocatee, Fleming Island, or Orange Park.
If you have questions about working with our real estate team to buy a house, give us a call at (904) 544-5252 or fill out the form below, and we’d be happy to help!